Activities for Seniors
Save time with 1000s of activity ideas & helpful resources. Plan and implement activity programs that are stimulating, relevant, and suit a wide range of needs and interests.
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How to Use Conversation Cards to Connect Residents
Strike up conversation and increase the connections between residents by using strategically placed conversation cards throughout your community and in your calendar.
Articles 0New Member Activity
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Armchair Travel to the Philippines
This comprehensive armchair travel activity includes everything you need for a full day of travel to the PHILIPPINES. Fact files, trivia, quizzes, music, food, posters, craft and more! We hope you enjoy the PHILIPPINES travelog!
Armchair Travel Multicultural Philippines 774 13 Comments New
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Short Story Jokes #12
The next installment in our funny short stories series! Thank you Gwyneth!
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Never Have I Ever Game for Seniors
Here's a great group activity....Never I Have I Ever, senior edition! My AL group loves this, we always have a great time, share some laughs and learn about each other.
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Aromatherapy Bingo
The aromatherapy jars I made are small snack-size containers with cottonballs in them, then added essence oils to.
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Hopscotch Exercise Game
A fun way to encourage exercise. Use the familiar hopscotch game to 'land on' different seated exercises. You will need the numbers on A4 sheets of paper and a beanbag, and space on the floor to lay out the Hopscotch.
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Painted Tulip Garden
We cut green tagboard to resemble grass and made stems from the remainder and had the residents paint the tulip outlines to complete our garden.
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15 Snippets of Filipino Trivia
Here is some fascinating trivia about the Philippines!
Trivia Philippines 213 7New
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The Philippines Quiz
This quiz relates to all things from the Philippines!
Philippines 172 8New
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The Philippines Fact File
An attractive one-page fact file all about the Philippines. Print, distribute and discuss!
Philippines 151 9New
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The Philippines Travel Posters
Posters of famous tourist destinations in the Philippines!
Posters Philippines 51 10New
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The Philippines Landmark Posters
Posters of famous landmarks in the Philippines!
Posters Philippines 47 11New
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The Philippines Bunting Templates
Philippine Bunting templates for a Filipino party!
Philippines 34 12New
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Musical Stories and Song
Objective: Promotes memory recall, focus and attention, group paticipation and laughter.
Music 384 136 Comments New Member Activity
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Red or Black Card Game
This very simple card game works great for memory care.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Games 429 142 Comments New Member Activity
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FLIP Cards and Dice Matching Game
This simple card and dice game works well for memory care.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Games 289 152 Comments New Member Activity
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Words Enging with Ology
A list of words ending in OLOGY - meaning: the study of............
Words That Start With Quiz 324 164 Comments New Member Activity
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Welsh Love Spoons Folklore
According to Welsh Folklore, these ornately carved Spoons were traditionally made from a single piece of wood by young men as a love token for their sweethearts.
Trivia Wales Saint David's Day 100 174 Comments New Member Activity
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Horse Quiz
A horse-themed quiz to enjoy!
Quiz 603 182 Comments New
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Human Body Trivia Quiz
All answers are words or expressions pertaining to the human body. A fun quiz for seniors!
Quiz * September Anytime * 6377 19Updated
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Pick a Biography
Can be used within PowerPoint or a printed hard copy. Let the residents pick out a name and use the powerpoint to show the famous face. Read up on the famous face and have a group discussion about them.
126 202 Comments New Member Activity
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Guess the Flower Quiz
I've used this quiz with various levels of cognitive ability - all enjoyed the challenge and the group support in working out the answers. It has also triggered reminiscence and group discussions.
Quiz 366 212 Comments New Member Activity
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Guess the Bird Quiz
I've used this with various levels of cognitive ability - all enjoyed the challenge and the group support in working out the answers. It has also triggered remininscence about the garden.
Quiz 330 223 Comments New Member Activity
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Scouting History
PowerPoint presentation for discussion and reminiscing.
Trivia Lord Baden-Powell's Birthday 91 232 Comments New Member Activity
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6 Vaccination Celebration Ideas
If your community has started vaccinations or are in the middle of setting up your final clinic, it’s time to CELEBRATE! It’s been quite a difficult year and while vaccinations aren’t a global cure, they are definitely a reason to feel some hope
Coronavirus: Covid-19 1251 242 Comments
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Newsletter Template - April 2021
Here is a newsletter template for April 2021 in WORD format. So easy to edit and customize!
Forms & Templates * April Anytime * 831 25
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Old Time Favorites - Sing The Next Line
Sing the next line of the song - if you know more, carry on singing and enjoy yourselves! These songs date back to the 1920s.
Music Quiz 269 26Member Activity
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What Would You Do Part 2
Here are ten more "what wold you do" scenarios I created and have done with my residents. While my residents love getting into a good discussion about each, I like that their answers give me a lot of insight into who they are. Enjoy!
Quiz Happy Hour 1122 271 Comment Member Activity
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Covid-19 Poetry: Life in Isolation
Here are a few poems written by people expressing their feelings during this Covid 19 Pandemic.
Coronavirus: Covid-19 Poetry 424 283 Comments Member Activity
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No-Sew Knotted Blanket Kits
I am an activities coordinator for a memory care unit and the residents enjoyed tying the knots around the entire blanket.
Craft 573 296 Comments Member Activity
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Read-Aloud: Audience Participation Story #5
An audience participation story engages the audience in the story. It is a fun activity that promotes focus and creativity. Clients may repeat a word or phrase throughout the story: sing, gesture, or act.
Short Stories 605 30
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Easter Sunday Posters
Posters to help celebrate Easter!
Posters Easter 670 31
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This Day in History for Seniors: April - 2nd Edition
A reminiscing magazine for every day in April! Enjoy a full page of information about every day of the year, including important historical events, short bios, jokes, quotes, and fun brain teasers.
Trivia Short Stories This Day in History * April Anytime * 471 32
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Welsh Jokes
Here are some Welsh jokes to share on St. David's Day.
Jokes Wales Saint David's Day 570 332 Comments Member Activity
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DIY Scattergories Game
I took lists made up with different items and printed out all the letters of the alphabet.I put the letters in a bag and gave them each a letter and then started reading off the list and they would have to give me an answer starting with the letter I gave them.
Games 508 344 Comments Member Activity
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The Shops of Old Reminiscing
I printed large photos of interiors of high street shops in the 50's. We then listed on a flip chart all the things they would have bought. We ended up with super long lists and lots of happy memories!
Reminiscing 626 354 Comments Member Activity
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Coloring for Seniors - Veranda With View
A color by number Veranda With View activity to enjoy! Use the key provided to color each number and discover the completed image.
Colouring 534 36
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2 More Incredible Dog Stories
Here are some more inspiring stories about faithful dogs to share.
Short Stories International Guide Dog Day World Animal Day 888 37
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Cairo the Military Dog
A story about the incredible dog who helped catch Osama Bin Laden.
Short Stories International Guide Dog Day World Animal Day 366 38
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St. David's Day Quiz
Here is a Welsh quiz to enjoy on St. David's Day!
Quiz Wales Saint David's Day 620 392 Comments Member Activity
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Poems for Saint David's Day
Here is a lovely Welsh poem to share on St. David's Day.
Poetry Wales Saint David's Day 313 401 Comment Member Activity
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Musical Bingo
Songs include music from genre's ranging from Gospel, Rock & Roll, Country Western, Musicals, and more. All of the songs can be found on Youtube.
Music Bingo 333 411 Comment Member Activity
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Never Too Late for Your Dreams: The Jim Morris Story
As a kid growing up in Texas, Jim Morris loved to play baseball. He was an outstanding pitcher and was even drafted right out of high school by the New York Yankees. However, it would be decades before he would pitch in the major league.
Short Stories 155 42
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10 Easter Bonnet Reminiscing Questions
Here are a few questions to get your group talking about one of the most beloved (or hated, depending on who you ask) traditions: getting dressed up for church, for a parade, or for a party at Easter.
Reminiscing Easter 592 43
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Match the Artwork to the Artist
With a pen, join the artwork to the artist.This is a hard one and is suitable for residents who enjoy art or who previously worked in jobs relating to the arts.
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Book Titles Word Search
Encourage residents to talk about these books and reminisce about their plots.
Word Search World Book Day 654 45
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Route 66 Sensory Kit Inspiration
Get your kicks on Route 66 by making this historic roadway a part of your next sensory stimulation small group or individual interaction.
Sensory Reminiscing USA 269 46
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Canine Superstars Quiz
Can you name these famous dogs? Some are real, some are fictional!
Quiz International Guide Dog Day World Animal Day 836 47
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DIY Armchair Travel to China
I gathered 8-10 residents to the common area near the entertainment and sound system.
China 60 48Member Activity
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ANZAC Day Posters
ANZAC Day Posters!
Australia Posters New Zealand Anzac Day 147 49
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Free Activity Calendar for Seniors
You can now add Daily Schedules, Icons, and Print at a variety of sizes! This easy to edit activity calendar can be pre-filled with upcoming events and celebration ideas for nursing homes and assisted living facilities. A perfect resource for activity coordinators working with the elderly.
Forms & Templates Articles 97666 0109 Comments
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20 Practical Activities for people living with Alzheimer’s Disease
20 activities for the elderly with dementia. The following ideas may be used on a one-to-one basis and others may be suitable for small groups depending on their abilities. These dementia activities are designed to promote and maintain existing skills.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Articles 38120 165 Comments
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Words in Words Game
This game is very popular! It provides mental stimulation, social interaction and promotion of self-worth.
Word Games 32273 272 Comments
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The Price is Right Game
This is such a fun game! Residents will love reminiscing about the price of groceries in a social setting.
Games Alzheimer's & Dementia 29929 354 Comments
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Things that go Together Quiz
There are two ways to play this game. Great for people living with dementia!
Quiz Alzheimer's & Dementia Coronavirus: Covid-19 26830 438 Comments
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How To Structure Reminiscing Sessions For Seniors
Reminiscing with the elderly is a wonderful way to validate the lives of individuals and provide seniors with a sense of purpose, especially those living with dementia. Reminiscing activities also encourage social interaction and promote interpersonal skills.
Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia Articles One-on-One 24182 530 Comments
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6 Whiteboard Games for the Elderly
Whiteboards are an indispensable tool for Activity Coordinators and can be used for group activities, communication and learning!
Articles Games Word Games Happy Hour Coronavirus: Covid-19 23503 632 Comments
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Games for People Living with Dementia
Adapting and modifying games for seniors is necessary for all sorts of different reasons. As well as for those living with dementia, games need to be modified for those who use wheelchairs and those with impaired vision or sensory loss.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Games Articles 22610 739 Comments
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Balloon Games
Gentle exercise for the arms as well as an opportunity to socialize! Great for game for the elderly. Also suitable for people living with dementia.
Exercise Games Alzheimer's & Dementia Olympic Games Commonwealth Games 22177 867 Comments
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School Days Reminiscing Cards
This is a wonderful game that can be adapted to any occasion. Residents will enjoy reminiscing and sharing stories.
Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia World Teachers Day 21415 928 Comments
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Finish the Sayings and Proverbs Game
This fun and simple game is great for seniors including people living with dementia. Includes well known sayings, idioms and proverbs that they will remember from their past.
Word Games Games Alzheimer's & Dementia Happy Hour Coronavirus: Covid-19 21046 1035 Comments
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10 Activities to Make Seniors Laugh
Instilling a culture of humor and laughter into long-term care facilities is good for everyone and may even improve the overall functioning and well-being of your clients. It is important to incorporate funny and amusing activities into your regular program that cater to all tastes.
Jokes Articles 19955 1120 Comments
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Bucket of Bean Bags Game
This simple and fun game promotes friendships and physical activity!
Exercise Games Alzheimer's & Dementia Fathers Day (US, Canada & UK) Fathers Day (Australia & NZ) Olympic Games Commonwealth Games 19903 1217 Comments
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Songs for Seniors Quiz
Here is an over 80s song list. It includes lyrics to over 80 popular songs from yesteryear to enjoy in a sing-along. Sing the first line, and then ask residents to sing the next line!
Music Quiz Coronavirus: Covid-19 International Music Day World Music Day 19676 1388 Comments Member Activity
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Musical Bingo
Musical Bingo improves recall and provides opportunities to reminisce. It is also an enjoyable and sociable game. This game was created by a Music Therapist I worked with and it was very popular in our Dementia Care Unit. If you don't have time to put the game together, ask a volunteer to help you. All you need is a computer, a printer and a laminator. This activity includes downloadable song cards and calling cards.
Music Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia Bingo International Music Day World Music Day 19320 1412 Comments
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Sample Activities Calendars
Sample monthly and weekly activity calendars for activity coordinators working in nursing homes. I know from experience that when i first started at a rest home I was thrown in the deep end, and I just thought by sharing this it may help out a newbie to develop their activities program. This is a wonderful resource to help you plan ahead. Thanks to everyone who has shared their calendar.
Forms & Templates 19135 1542 Comments Member Activity
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Recycled Dream Spring Tree
Celebrate spring at your nursing home by making a gorgeous dream tree composed of spring flowers and blossoms!
Craft Colouring Spring (Southern Hemisphere) Spring (Northern Hemisphere) Summer (Southern Hemisphere) Summer (Northern Hemisphere) 17947 1656 Comments
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Free Music Playlists for the Elderly
Music has been proven to be very beneficial for the elderly in long term care, particularly those living with dementia or Alzheimer's Disease. Here are some wonderful free playlists of famous songs from the 40s, 50s & 60s!
Music Articles 17858 1728 Comments
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Difficult Behaviour Care Plan 1
Anna is a 79 year old lady living with 2nd stage dementia. She seems to understand what staff say but is slow to respond. She is restless most of the day, sitting for only minutes at time...
Care Plans Articles 17716 1834 Comments
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How to write a Care Plan
The documentation process varies from facility to facility but there are usually three important steps to follow.
Care Plans Articles 16928 1920 Comments
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Read Aloud Activities for the Elderly
For the elderly who loved to read all their lives, listening to someone read to them can bring profound comfort and joy. Why not start a Read-Aloud Readers Group activity at your facility; a Book Club with a difference! Read-aloud activities are an intervention well worth pursuing.
Articles Reminiscing Hobby Clubs Coronavirus: Covid-19 World Read Aloud Day 16895 2025 Comments
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50 Activities for the Elderly in Lockdown and Isolation
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is causing chaos worldwide and this is a hard time for so many. We need to hang in there - these crazy times will pass. Here are some in-room activitiy ideas for residents to enjoy while in isolation.
Articles Coronavirus: Covid-19 16848 2127 Comments
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15 uplifting activities for people with limited mobility
Elderly people who are confined to bed for long periods of time because of diagnosis or frailty often experience severe mood swings. They get tired of sitting or lying down, become bored with life and miss social contact with others.
Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia One-on-One 16542 2220 Comments
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Spot the Differences Contest
Have some fun having a 'Spot the Differences' contest! This is a great group activity for seniors!
Games Spot the Difference Colouring Fathers Day (US, Canada & UK) Fathers Day (Australia & NZ) * August Activities * * September Anytime * 16314 2318 Comments
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Care Plan Goals & Interventions
Learn how to respond to the assessment of needs with the following 6 case studies extracted from resident care plans.
Articles Care Plans 16024 2412 Comments
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Dementia Program - Weekly
This sample program is for acute Dementia care. Some people like to do it weekly, others monthly. Download the form and adjust it to suit you.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Forms & Templates 15604 2510 Comments
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15 Activities for Loners and Introverted Seniors
Most long term care facilities have some residents who are ‘loners’ or ‘introverts’; they enjoy being in their bedrooms and do not often pursue interaction with others.
Articles One-on-One 15252 2631 Comments
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Armchair Travel: A Sensory Experience for Seniors
Armchair Travel takes people to faraway places without leaving home. It provides a sensory experience and the opportunity to learn about exotic lands and important past events in a meaningful manner. This is a wonderful activity for seniors living in nursing homes and suitable for people with dementia.
Articles Multicultural Alzheimer's & Dementia New Zealand Reminiscing Colouring Armchair Travel Coronavirus: Covid-19 15233 2736 Comments
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Old Wives Tales #1 - True or False?
Old wives tales are widely held traditional beliefs that are now thought to be unscientific or incorrect. Nevertheless, many old wives tales have been scientifically proven to be true! Can you guess which ones?
Quiz Trivia Happy Hour * November Anytime * 14932 2817 Comments
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Indigenous Australian Dot Paintings
Indigenous Australians use plant shoots, Echidna quills and small twigs to paint their Dreamtime stories. Here are 12 Dot Painting Templates to enjoy with the elderly.
Craft Australia Colouring Australia Day NAIDOC Week World Indigenous Day 14860 2913 Comments
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Christmas Quiz
Here's a fun Christmas quiz for seniors in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
Quiz Christmas 14772 306 Comments
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Sensory Stimulation for Dementia Care
Sensory stimulation is the activation of one or more of the senses such as taste, smell, sight, hearing, and touch. Sensory stimulation is a key component for improving the quality of life of people living with dementia.
Articles Sensory Alzheimer's & Dementia 14631 3115 Comments
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Heart of Kindness
This is a group activity suitable for other celebrations as well, such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Valentine’s Day.
Craft World Kindness Day Valentine's Day Mothering Sunday (UK) Mothers Day (Australia, NZ, US & Canada) 14314 328 Comments
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Finish the Song Line Quiz
This quiz can be extended into a good old fashioned sing-a-long! Have fun!
Music Quiz 13925 334 Comments Member Activity
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How to Plan Music Activities for Dementia Care
Everyone responds instinctively to music. A person’s ability to engage in music often remains intact far into the advanced stages of dementia. Music triggers certain networks of the brain that benefit people suffering from difficulties with language, cognition, or motor control.
One-on-One Music Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia Reminiscing 13825 3411 Comments
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13 Reminiscing Themes for Seniors
Sharing and recollecting memories with seniors in long term care helps them to affirm who they are and maintain self worth.
Articles Reminiscing 13824 3511 Comments
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Tips for One-on-One Visits with Seniors
It is not uncommon for seniors living in assisted-living facilities to lack mental stimulation and social contact. Recreation Therapists often use one-on-one visits to respond to the needs of those who avoid social settings. There are many enjoyable games and activities that can keep minds and bodies strong and active.
One-on-One Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia 13541 3615 Comments
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Activities for Men
Men’s activities are challenging! The best way to find meaningful activities for men is to uncover past lifestyle choices and history - you can gather this information from residents and their families. Here are 8 tips for engaging men in meaningful activities.
For Men Articles International Men's Day 13234 377 Comments
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Guessing Game - Who Am I?
This is a wonderful reminiscing activity in a group setting. Guess the names of these famous people from the clues provided.
Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia Games Who Am I 13002 389 Comments
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For Giggles
Short and sweet jokes to share!
Jokes International Joke Day April Fool's Day * March Anytime * 12924 394 Comments
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Tips for Writing Successful Activity Programs for Senior Care
Designing activity programs for residents in nursing homes and long term care requires creative thinking and enthusiasm. Your main point of reference will be the assessment of your clients.
Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia 12887 4017 Comments
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Name a Word Quiz #1
Here's a fun word game for Seniors - Name a word starting with the same letter across 10 categories. Answers included!
Quiz Word Games * July Anytime * 12865 414 Comments
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This Day In History For Seniors: August
A reminiscing magazine for every day in August! Enjoy the next edition of the popular 'This Day in History' series with historical trivia, jokes, quotes and biographies!
Short Stories This Day in History Trivia * August Activities * 12826 4226 Comments
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Festive Wall Art Craft
Lovely wall art for all occasions! Video instructions included.
Craft Valentine's Day Easter Halloween 12819 436 Comments Video
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How to motivate residents in long term care
Encouraging the elderly to participate in scheduled activities can be challenging. Lack of engagement is a common problem. It is important that you identify any barriers - whether perceived or real - that might be preventing residents from getting involved.
Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia 12772 4430 Comments
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This Day in History for Seniors: September
A reminiscing magazine for every day in September! Enjoy the next edition of the popular 'This Day in History' series with historical trivia, jokes, quotes and biographies!
This Day in History Short Stories Trivia * September Anytime * 12588 4524 Comments
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Creative Thinking Exercises
Creativity is a skill to be developed and cherished. There are endless ways to train and exercise the brain! The following exercises are good practice for creative thinking.
Word Games For Men Riddles Coronavirus: Covid-19 * April Anytime * International Men's Day 12471 4612 Comments
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Two Minute Activities for Dementia Care
During your working hours, you will see many clients outside of programmed activities; seize the opportunity and engage with them. It will only take a minute or two and can transform someone's state of mind and lift their spirits more than you can imagine.
Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia 12355 4729 Comments
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This Day in History for Seniors: January
A reminiscing magazine for every day in January! Enjoy a full page of information about every day of the year, including important historical events, short bios, jokes, quotes, and fun brain teasers.
This Day in History Short Stories Trivia * January Anytime * 12136 4849 Comments
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Scent Guessing
Sensory stimulation with familiar scents. A fun activity for seniors and the elderly living with dementia.
Sensory Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia Aromatherapy One-on-One Mothering Sunday (UK) Mothers Day (Australia, NZ, US & Canada) 12078 4934 Comments
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Golden Carers is my 'Right Hand Man'... I am ever so grateful for this website. Thank you to all who contribute... hopefully I will share some things myself soon.
Johnette Walker
Activities Officer in an Aged Care Facility
Australia
